Hey everyone, does anyone know what vaccines are mandatory if I'm considering joining the military after high school? I'm getting pretty serious about my decision and wanted to make sure I'm prepared. Are there specific inoculations I should be keeping track of? Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
It's positive to see you are being proactive with your health as you prepare for possible military service. Vaccinations are an important part of military readiness given service members often travel internationally and live in close quarters.
When you enlist in the U.S. military, during initial processing you'll receive multiple vaccinations to protect against diseases common in the regions where you might be sent. The precise list of vaccines can vary depending on your specific branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, etc.) and the locations you're deployed to. But generally, you can expect a broad set of immunizations, similar to those given to travelers going to tropical or developing countries.
You're likely to receive vaccines for illnesses including, but not limited to, influenza, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, polio, hepatitis A and B, and meningococcal and pneumococcal diseases. Also, depending on deployment destinations, there may be requirements for yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, typhoid, or rabies immunizations.
Also, be aware that COVID-19 vaccinations are now mandatory for all service members following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's full approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.
Keep in mind the specific vaccines required can change based on current conditions and emerging health threats. Any vaccines and immunizations you have already received will be recorded during your initial physical examination, and any necessary additional shots will be administered during basic training. This is why it's important to keep an accurate and updated record of your immunization history.
As always, for medical advice and requirements specific to your personal health, consult with a healthcare professional or the relevant military personnel during your recruitment process.
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